How to fix fridge not getting cold

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A refrigerator is one of the most important appliances in your household. It keeps your food cold, preserved and safe for consumption. If you notice that your refrigerator isn’t as cold as it should be, it may be time to give it a thorough inspection. There are several reasons why the appliance may not be keeping your items chilled. Try these simple fixes first before you call a repair person or start shopping for a new one.

Power Source

If the refrigerator is plugged in but not showing any signs of power, inspect the circuit breaker. If that proves not to be the issue, then the outlet could be the culprit. To determine if the power outlet is receiving power, plug in another small appliance to see if it turns on. If the test appliance is getting power, then there is a serious problem with your refrigerator that needs to be addressed by a professional.

Check the Temperature Dial

Once you determine that the refrigerator is getting power, take a look at the thermostat. Make sure it’s set to the appropriate temperature. It may have been accidentally adjusted recently. According to the FDA, refrigerator temperatures should be set at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius). If you notice the dial has been moved to above that mark, lower it back down to the right temperature. Periodically check the thermostat to ensure it stays below 40 degrees.

Test the Gaskets

The gaskets around the refrigerator’s door help keep the cool air inside the appliance. Over time, the door gaskets can get brittle, which reduces their ability to form a tight seal. An easy way to test the seal is to insert a paper bill halfway in the door and close it. Then, give the bill a tug. If it comes out easily, the gaskets need to be replaced. If there is resistance to the pull, the gaskets are good.

Poor Circulation

Refrigerators circulate cold air back and forth through vents that run between the freezer compartment and the refrigerator compartment. If the vents are blocked, airflow will decrease, causing temperature and moisture issues to arise. The location of the vents will depend on the refrigerator’s model, so check with your owner’s manual. Once you locate the vent, move any item that may be blocking it.

Clean the Condenser Coils

There are coils located under or behind the refrigerator that cool and condense the refrigerant. As time goes on, dust or dirt can accumulate on these coils. Once they are coated with a thick layer of debris, heat is no longer released efficiently and stays in your fridge. Use a handheld vacuum to remove the dust. Cleaning the coils should be done multiple times per year to help keep your fridge running smoothly.

Frost Buildup

Frost buildup in the freezer can also cause vent blockage. If this is the case, you will need to defrost your freezer. It can take a full day for a freezer to defrost, so plan to store your perishable food items in a cooler or a neighbor’s refrigerator.

Complex Fixes

If all of the above simple fixes still do not solve the problem, then the issue may be more serious. Some of these issues may be fixable for an experienced DIYer. However, If your refrigerator is under warranty, attempting to replace components yourself may void it. Double-check your warranty before attempting to replace or fix your refrigerator.

Broken Evaporator Fan

The evaporator fan draws the cool air from the evaporator coils to circulate throughout the entire unit. If the evaporator fan motor is broken, then it can not properly circulate the air. If the evaporator fan is not functioning, you will need to replace the fan’s motor. You can get a replacement fan motor from the refrigerator’s manufacturer, but it will take some mechanical knowledge to replace it.

Frosty Evaporator Coils

If the evaporator fan is not working correctly, the coils will frost over. To determine if the evaporator coils are frosted over, you will need to remove the back panel from the refrigerator.  This panel is typically located on the back wall of the freezer and can easily be opened with a screwdriver. Unplug the fridge, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for removing the panel. If the coils are frosted, empty the fridge and allow the coils to thaw for a day or two.

Broken Air Inlet Damper

The air inlet damper controls the amount of cold air that passes from the freezer to the refrigerator. A broken or blocked damper restricts the cold air’s circulation. Inspect the damper to determine whether it’s working properly. This piece is easily replaceable for a savvy DIYer.

When to Call a Professional

If any of the above fixes do not fix your refrigerator’s cooling power, it’s time to call in a refrigerator repair person. The problem is most likely a malfunctioning compressor, a defective temperature control board or something more complex that requires a professional diagnosis and repair. If your appliance is under warranty, you may qualify for a replacement or repair, depending on the issue. Prepare for the cost to repair a refrigerator or you may need to replace.

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